The National Drought Management Authority (NDMA), in collaboration with the Garissa County Government, has commissioned the rehabilitated Arera Borehole in Shanta Abaq Sub-County. This initiative aims to significantly improve access to safe, reliable, and sustainable water for local communities and their livestock.
The project was implemented to address the increasing pressure on the existing water source at Arera. Previously, this strain caused residents to suffer from frequent water shortages, livestock losses, and a decline in livelihoods during prolonged dry spells.
Rehabilitated and completed at a cost of KSh1.7 million, the borehole is expected to boost the livelihoods of pastoralists by providing a dependable water supply for both households and livestock. Furthermore, it will ease the pressure on surrounding water sources that are often overwhelmed during droughts.
Speaking during the launch, NDMA Chief Executive Officer Hared Adan stated that the project is part of the government’s long-term strategy to build drought resilience. By investing in permanent water infrastructure, the government aims to reduce vulnerability and the reliance on costly emergency interventions.
Mr. Adan explained that the NDMA mobilized resources to rehabilitate the borehole and upgrade the water storage and livestock watering systems. This ensures efficient and sustainable water access. He also urged the community to take collective responsibility for protecting the facility to ensure it continues to serve current and future generations.
On behalf of the Garissa County Government, Water Executive Mohamed Ibrahim Sugow expressed his sincere gratitude to the NDMA for its continuous support. Mr. Sugow noted that while the county government drilled this strategic borehole, the NDMA stepped in to provide storage equipment and livestock watering infrastructure, bringing the project to fruition.
Minister Mohamed also pointed out that Arera is located near the borders of Isiolo and Wajir counties. This strategic location makes the borehole a critical water point not only for local residents but also for neighboring pastoralist communities.
According to a local resident, Aden Noor, families have endured decades of hardship, walking long distances in search of water while relying on donkey carts to transport the scarce commodity.
Noor added that periods of water scarcity severely affected women, children, and pregnant mothers, who often had to endure long and arduous journeys to find the essential resource. He noted that the loss of livestock during droughts also worsens household poverty and cripples the pastoralist economy, which is the economic mainstay of the region.
